Tag: Alebrijes

Week 11: Let’s Try this again

Week 11: Let’s Try this again

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Results

Punjab FC 4 – 3 Aizawl

It sure looked like Punjab was going to take their first loss of the campaign, even with two goals pulled back for offside Aizawl had shown the better style throughout the match. But then came a late red card to Aizwal’s right back and suddenly the onslaught was back on. Within 60 seconds Kurtis Guthrie (yup, him again) and defender Bikash Yumnam pulled the team from the edge of defeat to the hallowed halls of victory with a little poke from a dangerous corner kick to do the lasting damage.

Freiburg 3 – 2 Wolfsburg [M]

Vincenzo Grifo led the charge out of the gate blasting two beauties in the first half. When Wolfsburg stormed back to equalize late on, Silver Fox Nico Schlotterbeck made the difference to keep Freiburg very much in the mix for non Munich/Dortmund honors with only eight matches left to play.

Grenoble 0 – 0 Rodez [M]

The good news, Grenoble has stopped shipping goals like they were square-jawed sci-fi dudes with good chemistry (…no…no takers on the slash fiction joke…? okay moving on). The bad news the offense has also dried up. They’ve scored four times in nine matches under Vincent Hognon. (That this is a marked improvement shows just how low they had fallen prior to Hognon’s arrival…but it may not be enough improvement to save them from the drop).

Great Olympics 1 – 0 Legon Cities

Sigh…just when you hope the Royals are on the cusp of something, they go and lay an egg again…

SC Freiburg 7 – 1 FC Carl Zeiss Jena [F]

Carl Zeiss Jena may be a the foot of the women’s Bundesliga, but they had the lead for a solid half an hour in Freiburg. Then the lady griffins took charge. Seven goals from six players in about forty minutes was a heck of a showing. It may not win any trophies, but I bet it felt darn good.

Vozdovac 1 – 1 FK Spartak Subotica

The Red Dragons split their points on top of the mall in Belgrade. Milos Pantovic struck a solid rebound back into the goal to give them a surprising lead. While the defense did a good job of forcing Spartak into some ugly shots, their befuddlement on a late long ball opened it up for Spartak to waltz it in and take a point.

Grenoble Foot 3 – 3 Montabaun [F]

Perhaps les hommes de Hognon could use a conversation with Grenoble’s women’s side. Three goals marks a high point in the league for the ladies of the alps, though to be fair one of them was one of the slowest rollers I’ve ever seen. Still, points are points, and I’m not one to complain (though I would love if more than one phone could get video of the game)

NY Red Bulls 0 – 1 Minnesota United [M]

It takes a bit of effort to go into New York and come away with one point, let alone all three. But that’s what the Loons managed against the Red Bulls over the weekend. It was in no small part due to Dayne St. Clair’s showing in goal. The keeper made 8 tremendous saves (including a ball don’t lie penalty save), and though statistics suggested he coulda/shoulda given up 4, he kept the score line clear to let the single volley strike from Luis Amarilla send Minnesota home happy.

Gualaceo SC 2 – 1 Emelec

While Romario Caicedo got a late consolation goal, Los bombillos struggled with newly promoted Gualaceo. A little boost to the new comers to best one of the best sides in all Ecuador last year, but hopefully not the beginning of a trend.

Punjab FC 1 – 2 Sreenidi Deccan

Punjab lost their unbeaten run against the Andhar Pradesh side and more specifically Nigerian striker, Louis Ogana. It likely didn’t help that Kurtiss Guthrie finally had an off night for the Northwestern side and the attack was thoroughly neutralized.

Pau 0 – 1 Grenoble [M]

Don’t look now but les Grenobloises have gone three whole matches without a loss! Even though Jordy Gaspar had ten sloppy minutes to get himself banned from the next week of matches, Brice Mableu held on to enough attacks to ensure that Yoric Ravet’s penalty salvaged a crucial three points for Les Alpines who moved above the drop…phew!

News & Notes

(Omitted due to time constraints–hey, I’m writer, editor, publisher…I do what I want!)

Player of the Week

There were some solid showings this week by teams who played more than once, but you can’t ignore the elephant in the room: Freiburg Frauen dominated their match this week. And while lots of people scored goals, I couldn’t keep my eyes off 19 year old Swiss midfielder Riola Xhemaili who managed some absolutely staggering assists and key passes to set up several of the goals (playing in a line with other powerhouses like Janina Minge and Hasret Kayici doesn’t hurt either.

Standings Update

Standings will be updated following the next week

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Emelec2102.32.30.7
Punjab1102.03.01.0
Alebrijes de Oaxaca5321.81.21.0
Ross County5331.641.51.2
Freiburg6341.621.61.6
Legon Cities4421.601.40.6
Minnesota0201.01.01.0
Grenoble3370.90.91.5
FK Vozdovac1130.80.81.4
University of Montana–b——————
Rosenborg BK–b——————
Table Updated 3/16/22
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, March 16th

Grenoble Foot v. Yzeure Allier [F]

Alebrijes v. Tlaxcala FC

Thursday, March 17th

Friday, March 18th

Saturday, March 19th

Greuther Freuth v. Freiburg [M]

Celtic v. Ross County

Napredak v. Vozdovac

Grenoble v. SC Bastia [M]

Minnesota United v. San Jose Earthquakes [M]

Sunday, March 20th

Bayer Leverkuesen v. SC Freiburg [F]

Punjab FC v. Neroca FC

Rosenborg BK v. Avaldsnes [F]

Merignac v. Grenoble Foot [F]

Legon Cities v. WAFA

Emelec v. Delfin

Monday, March 21st

Tuesday, March 22nd

Tapatio v. Alebrijes

Week 8-10: Whew boy

Week 8-10: Whew boy

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

There will come a point in your lives boys, when you seem doing something vital from 4:30 in the morning until 10:30 at night. When that time comes, remember that you are enough just as you are, and your blog about parenting and soccer can take a break…assuming there are still blogs…and soccer…and parenting…you get the idea.

Results

Cimarrones 0 – 1 Alebrijes

Mineros 4 – 2 Alebrijes

Alebrijes 1 – 0 Celaya

Alebrijes continued their strong form. But as the defense goes, so goes the whole team, the slip against Mineros was the first time the team dropped points after scoring twice, but confirms that they’ve only lost matches after they give up two or more. Andre Alcaraz continues to be a brick wall in front of the goal, and Miguel Vallejo has done a masterful job on free kicks

Emelec 4 – 0 CSD Macara [M]

Independente del Valle 0 – 1 Emelec [M]

Emelec 2 – 2 Guyaquil City

Emelec’s return to action in Ecuador came with a trio of games against top opposition, and they didn’t disappoint. Sebastian Rodriguez has been huge so far, holding down a tight knit defense and scoring in the first two victories of the season while Alexis Zapata has shown up as a creative force for the attack. (As an added perk, rocking my Emelec jersey to school got multiple kids excited to talk about things…and then their learning!)

Hibernian 2 – 0 Ross County

Ross County 3 – 1 St. Johnstone

Motherwell 0 – 1 Ross County

Ross County 1 – 0 St. Mirren

The Staggies had an impressive showing over the last three weeks, so much so that suddenly, a team that seemed destined for demotion has hauled themselves up into the top half of the league. Again, Regan Charles Cook and Joseph Hungbo were huge for the Stags, while Alex Iacovitti and Jack Baldwin anchored a stellar showing by the back line.

Augsburg 1 – 2 Freiburg [M]

Freiburg 3 – 0 Hertha BSC [M]

Bochum 1 – 2 Freiburg [M-Cup]

RB Leipzig 1 – 1 Freiburg [M]

VfL Wolfsburg 4 – 1 SC Freiburg [F]

After a long lay off the ladies of Breigsau came back a bit rusty, but in their absence the men seem to have found a second win. Winning 3 of 4 and getting a vital draw with a fellow top six contender helps Freiburg stay close in the hunt for European places. Even better they are now just two steps away from the team’s first hardware in years with a spot in the semi-finals of DFB Pokal sealed against Hamburger SV. There were no shortage of strong performances, but we’d like to send a special tip of the cap to Nico Schlotterback’s defense and Rolland Salai’s role on the wing.

Nimes 3 – 1 Grenoble [M]

Nimes Metropole Garre 2 – 0 Grenoble Foot [F]

Grenoble 0 – 2 Toulouse [M]

Nancy 0 – 1 Grenoble [M]

Grenoble got one great win over the last three weeks. That is not a great record. But it did come with a fine showing from Brice Mableu back in goal with five saves and an assist. Now…can everybody in blue do that? (and can they do it against teams that aren’t sitting next to them on the bottom of the table?)

Vozdovac 0 – 0 Radniki Nis

FK Radnicki 1923 1 – 0 Vozdovac

Vozdovac 0 – 3 Red Star Belgrade

Mladost Lucani 2 – 4 Vozdovac

Let’s not dwell too long on the discouraging showings against Radnicki 1923 or the monsters of Red Star. A resilient draw against the better than most Radniki Nis team was nice, and the ability to show up and stick with a plan in Lucani was much appreciated. The Dragons didn’t have to do much to scorch the blue side’s defense, but the final goal by Marko Ivezic on a give and go with Stefan Hadjin was a beautiful bit of build up on a grey and dreary day.

Legon Cities 1 – 1 Hearts of Oak

Real Tamale 1 – 1 Legon Cities

Legon’s been unbeaten in their last 5 matches (though they’ve only won two of those). It’s all the more impressive as recent top choice keeper: William Essu is just 19 years old and standing up to the best shots that can be offered by much more established sides. Every year, it feels like Legon grabs a great keeper from nowhere: and here we are again. Medaase pii William!

Punjab FC 2 – 2 Churchill Brothers

Kenkre 0 – 4 Punjab FC

There was no shortage of offense for Punjab as they resumed their I-League campaign. Kurtis Guthrie has towered over the competition both literally (he’s 6’2″ in a team of 5 footers) and figuratively, scoring four goals over two matches to create a dominant attack (their eight goals outpaces every other team). Despite the slip against Churchill (a long standing local power), there’s plenty of reason to be optimistic for Punjab as they go for glory.

https://youtu.be/xwpIdZ9DRQE

Philadelphia Union 1 – 1 Minnesota United

Minnesota United 1 – 1 Nashville SC

A couple of draws don’t tell the whole story for Minnesota United. The team has looked surprisingly organized in midfield, going beyond Emmanuel Reynoso’s usual one man show. Hasani Dotson has been on point this year (after a less consistent 2021), and the team has been well organized from front to back even though the supposed offensive juggernaut has yet to click. (To be fair, Philadelphia and Nashville are two strong opponents).

News & Notes

Mr. Poopy Butt

President Poop Butt

That has become your boys’ go to insult of late, and while I’d really rather we not have it at all, if we’re going to use it it better be directed towards this snivelling, self-righteous schmuck. Vladmir Putin has such a hard time believing that his country can still be important without forcing others to obey him that he’s put millions of people at risk to soothe his own bruised sense of self. If you need a hug Vladmir, I’m happy to oblige, but if you want to keep hurting people, well you really are, in the words of Alex, “Vladmir Poo….p Butt!”

Most Systems Go

In the time we were away a few leagues returned into action: Serbia is back to finish their current season, with Vozdovac going from an outside shot at Europe to a much more realistic shot at relegation. Punjab FC restarted their season after the long COVID Delay (like a rain delay, but with more spike proteins). And Minnesota United sent out their attacking force and defensive suggestion to the new American season.

Only the Griz (still focusing on school thank you very much) and Rosenborg (almost wrapped up with the preseason) have yet to play.

Kurtis is Cruising

Player of the Week

Okay, there are several players to recognize after several weeks of dereliction of duty. So let’s acknowledge some of the biggest difference makers for three teams who had tremendous runs over the last few weeks. Miguel Vallejo has rejuvenated Alebrijes; Nico Schlotterback has been instrumental in keeping Freiburg near the top of Germany, and Kurtis Guthrie is a one man wrecking crew in the Indian league. So Miguel, Nico and Kurtis you are our three players of the week.

Standings Update

In their short time back, Emelec and Punjab have shot to the top of our standings, while Alebrijes Oaxaca is showing a strong third, and the next three sides are separated by only 4 hundredths points per game. Strangely, two teams have the same average points/goals for and goals against per game: Minnesota (which after two matches isn’t too surprising) and Freiburg (which after 13…is a bit)

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Emelec2102.32.30.7
Punjab1102.03.01.0
Alebrijes de Oaxaca5321.81.21.0
Ross County5331.641.51.2
Freiburg6341.621.61.6
Legon Cities4421.601.40.6
Minnesota0201.01.01.0
Grenoble3370.90.91.5
FK Vozdovac1130.80.81.4
University of Montana–b——————
Rosenborg BK–b——————
Table Updated 3/9/22
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, March 9th

Thursday, March 10th

Friday, March 11th

Punjab FC v. Aizawl

Saturday, March 12th

Freiburg v. Wolfsburg [M]

Great Olympics v. Legon Cities

Vozdovac v. FK Spartak Subotica

Grenoble v. Rodez [M]

Sunday, March 13th

SC Freiburg v. FC Carl Zeiss Jena [F]

Gualaceo SC v. Emelec

Grenoble Foot v. Montabaun [F]

NY Red Bulls v. Minnesota United [M]

Monday, March 14th

Tuesday, March 15th

Punjab FC v. Sreenidi Deccan

Pau v. Grenoble [M]

66. Where you’re supposed to be.

66. Where you’re supposed to be.

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

For the first time in over two years, your mom and I went away. Away from you, away from home, away from all the lingering routines and history of home and all the plans and preparation that goes into a day in the life of us and you.

One of (the many) things made harder by the pandemic is living in the moment. So much of our time is spent missing the way things were of strategizing and imagining ways to navigate the world safely.

Being parents amplifies that even more because you boys aren’t in a planning place yet. If you could choose, every day would be pajama day and every meal would be chocolate and fruit. So it falls to us to remember what worked before, and what needs to happen in the next week (or more realistically, next two hours).

I’m not complaining mind you. I’m happy to help you by handling the past and the future. I’d just like to join you in the present more often.

Dear Boys,

Knowing your love of foxes I figured you’d like this painting from one of their shows.

That’s what came to mind last weekend. Your mom and I went to see our favorite band: Cloud Cult. Possibly the most philosophical band of the modern era, and for sure the only one that incorporates live painting into every show. The crowd was kept small, the spaces held separate, and still it was wonderful.

The band has a lot of songs that question what we do, how we do it, and how we are often torn between our memories, our plans, and our present. And as I sipped on a cider and sat next to your mom, I tried to set aside my busy brain for being present in the moment.

That’s a surprisingly difficult thing to do.

Busy brains know how to be busy, and they do it without really being asked. It’s true as we go through our day to day life, and it’s even true when we watch a simple soccer match. Lots of fans aren’t there in the moment, we’re casting our eyes to the standings to explain a shift in fortunes, or at the broader story to predict what’s next for a beloved coach or player.

A more efficient Oaxaca…who cares why?

I’m a part of that practice. I can’t help but look back at where Alebrijes de Oaxaca was at throughout last season and marvel at where they are now. How have they done it? Was it promoting Juan Portales to captain? Was it changing managers? Shifting styles?

Ultimately finding the answers to those questions is satisfying, but with or without the knowledge, it’s a pleasure to watch the players in their explosive kits embrace and cheer one another. It’s fun to hear the stadium roar again and feel like great things are possible. Knowing why it’s happening is fine, but ultimately, it’s great that it is happening at all.

If you give this moment your fullest attention

We’ll just keep going forwards with no need for going back.

Cloud Cult. “Time Machine Invention”
The straw that stirs the scotch

It’s also relevant at the individual level. The last month has been the golden age of Regan Charles Cook. The Staggies’ winger has been a powerhouse throughout the Scottish premiership even though Ross County remains a relative afterthought.

That stunning showing is the kind of thing that sets tongues to wagging. How much longer will he keep it up? If he does how long until he gets to move up to a better, more influential club?

While those questions of the future buzz around, it doesn’t help us to appreciate what it is. Regan Charles Cook is kicking butt. His speed, his enthusiasm, his mere presence has made County highlights a joy to watch.

Turn off the phone and throw away the clock,

and the endless things you think you have to do.

The water’s warm and the sun is shining,

and I just wanna spend some time with you.

Cloud Cult. “Days to Remember”
Like being Papa Tiger

There’s so much out there in the world. We often search everywhere we look for explanations. Or extrapolate out what we know to make predictions. Your little brains strive so hard to understand, and I love helping you with that quest.

But sometimes the answer is: what is, is what we need right now.

I don’t know why we’re here, and I don’t know how

But I’m here with you now, I am here with you now

Cloud Cult. “You were Born”
Week 5: Spirit Stags!

Week 5: Spirit Stags!

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Results

Dundee United 2 – 1 Ross County

The Staggies got out to a good start thanks to (who else) Regan Charles-Cook. But Regan was also the impetus for the wheels falling off the wagon late in the second half. A foul in the box by Cook gave Dundee an equalizer from the penalty spot and the defense came undone in stoppage time to drop all the points on the road.

Raya2 Expansion 2 – 0 Alebrijes

Alebrijes’ unbeaten streak almost made it to February, but even though they put up 80 minutes of a shut out, it all came undone before the final whistle with Josue Gomez’s red card the low point of the Oaxacan’s first loss this year.

Ross County 3 – 3 Rangers

Regan Charles Cook and Jordan White scored twice to take the lead. despite giving the lead back in the second half, the Stags sprung one last counter attack to grab a late equalizer from Michael Wright.

Each year Ross County seems to get a solid result against the Glasgow duopoly of Rangers or Celtic. Unlike prior years, this result comes after a strong run of form rather than as a surprising one off result, so fingers crossed that this is less an aberration than the newly competitive normal.

Alebrijes 1 – 1 Atletico Morelia

The lotto machines of Albrijes were back at it on Saturday. (Because they’re great at DRAWS…get it…no? You’re still kids…sigh…dad jokes disarmed). The team has been well served by Defensive Midfielder and iron man Jorge Sanchez. The hard news is versatile defender Ernesto Reyes got a red card near the end of the match which will force Oaxaca to play without one of their most reliable defenders.

Legon Cities FC 3 – 0 Eleven Wonders

Croster Obour has come into his own as an attacking target for Jonah Attaquye. While the Royals are still firmly stuck in the bottom half of the league, they do have enough at both ends of the pitch (see the excellent stop on a free kick at the edge of the box) to feel confident about staying up (knock on all the wood).

Not sure, but sure seems like the audio and video are out of synch….sorry.

Le Puy 2 – 2 Grenoble Foot [F]

After a few weeks laid low by COVID and bad pitches, the ladies of Grenoble were back in action this weekend and came away with a draw.

If I’m reading the summary from Grenoble Foot Info correctly (a slightly dicey proposition), it sounds like Le Puy had the advantage early on, but after half time, with the addition of Adama Tamba to the field Les Iseroises found their flow again, netting goals from defender Fanny Arpin and striker Claudia Fabre.

Ross County 1 – 1 Aberdeen

It was another weekend of quick counter attacking football for the Staggies. But the strategy that earned them a surprising lead against Rangers only gave them a glimmer of a chance against Aberdeen. Ross Laidlaw was excellent in his return to the Staggies goal and that combined with a second half goal from Ross Callachan was enough.

CD Tepatitlan de Morelos 1 – 2 Alebrijes

Julio Cesar Cruz had a heckuva game in an end to end affair that provided ample shots at goal. He bedeviled some lax defending and dominated on set pieces. (Oxaca’s speed and strength on set pieces has paid huge dividends for the side this season.) As a result, Oaxaca got their 9th point 6 weeks ahead of their pace from the fall campaign.

News & Notes

Fuck Racism

I’ve said it before, and I’ll (sadly) probably say it again, racism has no place in our society.

This week Stags striker Regan Charles Cook on the receiving end of social media abuse. Further details were unclear, but it seems likely that Rangers fans were unable to accept that they could draw with a team in good form and took it out on County’s best scorer in a way that showed just how sad and pathetic their lives are.

More than a move…

Julie Blakstad: always awesome

From our start we’ve found players to root for and care about. But we’ve only found one Julie Blakstad. The fact that she’s more your age than mine, that she works hard, has fun, and plays so flipping well, is just a delight. This week she signed with English giants Manchester City. Hard as it is to see her step away from Rosenborg, It genuinely could not happen to a more deserving person. Tusen Takk Julie!

Comings and Goings

Beyond Julie’s big move (*sniff, sniff*) there were some other things that happened before the transfer window closed on Monday.

Jordan Tell helped lead Clermont Foot to Ligue 1 last year (at the expense of Grenoble). During the first half of the year in the top flight his minutes have declined so he’ll look to lead another team back up as the newest wing partner with Yoric Ravet. The Alpiners weren’t done there bringing aboard Gambian forward Abdoulie Sanyang, and young defender Allan Tchaptchet (who spent a chunk of time at Southampton). Meanwhile Rosenborg has brought on Argentine Renzo Giampaoli, a 21 year old Right Back, from Boca Juniors. (Fingers crossed he joins Emmanuel Reynoso on our list of beloved Boca transfers to our teams).

Meanwhile, Minnesota United said adios to Tomas Chacon, the talented young Uruguayan who ended up in training purgatory and never found his way out. And Grenoble said adieu to David Henen who left for Belgium.

Long Live Aurora!

This is awesome–I regret not buying shares, but to be fair, they went pretty fast. Our new United view of Minnesota will cover both the Loons and Aurora.

Player of the Week

After the week we just had, it’s clear that we’ll need to recognize either a Stag or an Alebrije, given the better record over all, and his role marshaling the attack and delivering on set pieces, it makes sense to give the nod to Jorge Sanchez.

Standings Update

After missing a shot to top the table, Legon Cities got themselves up into second place this week with their dominant showing against Eleven Wonders. The busy week also helped Ross County and Alebrijes enforce their position off the bottom of the standings.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Freiburg2111.82.32.0
Legon Cities3121.71.70.5
Alebrijes de Oaxaca2311.51.21.0
Ross County1221.01.61.6
Grenoble0220.51.01.5
University of Montana–b——————
Rosenborg BK–b——————
Minnesota United–b——————
FK Vozdovac——————
Emelec–b——————
Punjab FC–b——————
Table Updated 2/2/22
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, February 2nd

Thursday, February 3rd

Friday, February 4th

Saturday, February 5th

Koln v. Freiburg [M]

Dundee FC v. Ross County

Quevilly v. Grenoble [M]

Sunday, February 6th

Eintracht Frankfurt v. Freiburg [W]

Karela United v. Legon Cities FC

Olympique Marseille v. Grenoble Foot [F]

Monday, February 7th

Tuesday, February 8th

Week 4: Making Moves

Week 4: Making Moves

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Results

Hoffenheim 1 – 4 Freiburg [M–Cup]

After the shellacking against Dortmund, Freiburg delivered one of their own to march on into the DFB Pokal quarter finals. (A contest that actually WON’T be won by either Bayern Munich or Dortmund, for a change.)

Vincenzo Grifo showed up in a big way for the Griffins. He struck the first goal, converted a hand ball penalty and held the line firm for Freiburg as Hoffenheim couldn’t convert their in league success into a win in the Cup.

Alebrijes de Oaxaca 1 – 1 UDG

Oaxaca remains unbeaten in 2022 grabbing a draw against the Black Lions. The biggest boon has been a more assertive attack that isn’t confined to blasting away from distance. The Alebrijes have managed to make some incisive runs and support each other on set pieces. Edson Santos’ run into the area is a beautiful thing to behold, as is Ernesto Reye’s blooping pass to set up Jorge Sanchez’s goal. All in all, another strong night for our side in Mexico.

Legon Cities 5 – 0 Real Athletico [Cup]

In the northern city of Tamale, the Royals had no trouble pushing past the doubly Spanish sounding Real Athletico. The team’s showing included two goals from Hans Kwofie, another one from Croster Obour, and two more from Hamza Nassiru. Things are likely to get much more difficult as the tournament goes on.

Freiburg 2 – 0 VfB Stuttgart [M]

Stuttgart was out flanked and out run by Freiburg. Kevin Schade and Vincenzo Grifo created happy hell for the Griffins and got a valuable win to stay in the thick of the hunt for Europe.

Livingston 1 – 0 Ross County [Cup]

The Stags saw cup hopes crash out against Livvie. The stout defense gave up an uncharacteristic penalty and couldn’t find an equalizer.

Grenoble v. Niort [M] Postponed

Sigh…there’s that COVID postponement we almost thought we had dodged. Sadly the positive cases in Grenoble have further slowed the start to the Alpiner’s 2022.

Bibiani Gold Stars 2 – 1 Legon Cities FC

The Royals went up on a first half goal from Osman Amadu. But they couldn’t hold on to the lead away from home.

Grenoble v. Yzeure Allier [F] Postponed

And as if the men’s team wasn’t enough, the sides that train together contract COVID together. Best wishes to all the front line responders in the French Alps. The true MVPs of this whole Pandemic shenanigans.

News & Notes

Comings and Goings

Long standing Ross County defender Tom Grivositi has seen his playing time decline, so it’s not terribly surprising that he packed up and left for a team where he’ll be able to show his skills more openly. Still, he helped get the Stags to the Premiership, and his efforts for the club should not be forgotten.

As one of the teams between seasons, it makes sense that Rosenborg both lost and added players this last week. The loss is a tough one with young attacker Emil Konradssen Ceide heading out of town. We really like Emil, but the chance to play in Italy’s top league (with Sassuolo) is too good to pass up. He’ll be replaced by a athletic young defender, Tobias Borkeeiet, who should be ready to run anywhere and everywhere.

Left Winger Bruno Pitton will bring a wealth of experience from Argentina’s top flight to Emelec. He has struggled of late, but with 120 caps he should be ready to build los Bombillos attack. As an added bonus: We Get to talk about Bruno!

African Cup of Nations/Corrections

Our last/only rep

Lots of Great Women’s News

Though they aren’t officially linked with Minnesota United, if we take that idea of United at value, and we respect the tonnage of our fellow United fans who own shares of the new Minnesota Women’s Soccer team, then we need to be every bit as excited about the newest representative of the women’s game in our league. SO: This Thursday, we’ll have a new local favorite: Aurora, Arctic, Firefox. This is gonna be fun.

And in case that wasn’t enough our Minnesota-Montana connection got a little bit stronger with Edina High’s First Team all Minnesota: Bayliss Finn! Here’s to keeping the merry-go-round going: Minnesota–Missoula–Minnesota…Mwah.

Oh…last thing…

I’m 39 now…so all the sleepiness all the time makes sense.

Player of the Week

No two ways around it: Vincenzo Grifo gave it his all and boosted Freiburg just at a moment when they needed it most. Many many thanks to Vincenzo for leading the way, making himself something close to Mr. Freiburg.

Standings Update

The early stage of the season has once again shifted the leaderboard, Freiburg now takes top honors, though Legon Cities squandered their shot with that last loss.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Freiburg2111.82.32.0
Alebrijes de Oaxaca1201.71.30.7
Ross County1011.51.51.0
Legon Cities2121.41.40.6
Grenoble0120.30.71.3
University of Montana–b——————
Rosenborg BK–b——————
Minnesota United–b——————
FK Vozdovac——————
Emelec–b——————
Punjab FC–b——————
Table Updated 1/26/22
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, January 26th

Dundee United v. Ross County

Raya2 Expansion v. Alebrijes

Thursday, January 27th

Friday, January 28th

Saturday, January 29th

Ross County v. Rangers

Alebrijes v. Atletico Moreila

Sunday, January 30th

Legon Cities FC v. Eleven Wonders

Le Puy v. Grenoble Foot [F]

Monday, January 31st

Tuesday, February 1st

Ross County v. Aberdeen

CD Tepatitlan de Morelos v. Alebrijes

Week 2: Alebrijes Alright, Alright, Alright

Week 2: Alebrijes Alright, Alright, Alright

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Results

Alebrijes 2 – 0 Cancun FC

It sure looks like Alebrijes got off to a stronger start this year than in previous campaigns we’ve watched (it might help that Cancun was the rare team that had a worst fall than Oaxaca did). Newly permanent member of the team Juan Antonio Portales kicked off a full season of captaincy with an ironclad defense and two strong goals. Ernesto Reyes led the way with a beautiful blast from well outside the box early on and Miguel Vallejo dropped another on a break away during stoppage time to seal it. Here’s hoping this is a sign of a better season to come.

https://youtu.be/TFUkJoeKleQ

Freiburg 2 – 2 Arminia Bielefeld [M]

For most of the first half Freiburg looked the better side, but Arminia Bielefeld made a competent comeback against reserve keeper Benjamin Uphoff (in place of COVID positive Mark Flekken)

Grenoble 0 – 1 Auxerre [M]

Grenoble’s return to the field was a lot like their last four outings. It was a loss, and the offense could not hit the target. Over those 5 losses they’ve only scored twice…..

Grenoble 2 – 3 [Pen] Rodez [F-Cup]

The Women’s Coupe de France is a big battle bringing together teams from every corner of the Francophone world. The ladies of Grenoble seemed to be in good shape after a 7-0 dominant showing against Hellicourt. They showed up well against Rodez the top team in their division, despite losing Tiphaine Brissonet to a red card early in the match. Ultimately they were undone at the penalty spot and out of the competition.

Dreams FC 0 – 1 Legon Cities FC

Legon Cities got another road win, this time against a scuffling Dreams side who may well have deserved better. Obour Adu was everywhere on his debut for the Royals getting both the winning goal, and staggering the side post with a near miss. In between events, the team even stood up to a penalty kick for their hosts and walked away with all three points.

Tampico Madiero 1 – 1 Alebrijes

Oaxaca got off to another great start against Tampico (the previously named Jaibos). Left back Edson Santos sent in a great cross that was met by a surprising header from Josue Gomez to put them up. But from then on the team had to bunker down and absorb another attack every few minutes while getting nothing going the other way. Ernesto Reyes in particular had some great stops, but also a terrible bout of positioning that allowed the equalizer.

News & Notes

Extra Accolades

The Griz Soccer team already has a bundle of awards from the last year, so let’s add a couple more on to the pile!

The Griz were one of only 13 teams in the top tier of college soccer given the Team Ethics and Sportsmanship award, in no small part because they managed to dominate the league while having a paltry 13 cards against them. As this is a teachable-moment, parent focused website, we are impressed with this award and say, as we always do: GO GRIZ!

As if that weren’t enough, there was also an extra nod given to Griz keeper, Camellia Xu (Whose name I’ve been botching all year…sorry!). The British Columbia Native was invited to the Canadian Under 20 International Team training camp. It’s the first step on the long road to the senior national team …like Dayne St Clair! Basically we love Canadian goalies.

Comings and Goings

The big new addition this week was Minnesota United bringing in South African international Bongokuhle Hlongwane (nicknamed Sanisa). His signing was greeted with cheers by desperate Loons fans looking for another striker, and with cheers from South African fans who are equally thrilled to have a promising young player in line to show his skill in an international league.

Also on board this week: the Loons drafted St. Johns University product Tani Oluwaseyi, and Gustavo Canto, the Argentine Center Back on his way to Emelec. Meanwhile, Ross County brought in a loanee Declan Drysdale, and Vozdovac brought on striker Aleksandar Cirkovic who is still just 20 but has already played in Austria and Spain.

But with everyone coming there are some going as well, Ross County said goodbye to loanee Harry Clark, but they’ll see him again soon enough when the face Hibernian in Edinburgh. Rosenborg also said some farewells to their bench depth, Besim Serbecic and Gjermund Åsen.

African Cup of Nations

There’s always a thrill competing for your country. Usually it happens during the summer when the leagues are quiet, but Africa’s biggest contest happens in the winter. Grenoble has three players on different squads in Cameroon: Joseph Mendes (Guinea Bissau), Mamadou Diallo (Guinea), and Willy Semedo (Cape Verde).

Player of the Week

Getting points from two matches has finally broken the PoW drought for Alebrijes de Oaxaca. While Ernesto Reyes had the most appearances on the highlight reel, we’re going to look at the captain who helped organize the defense and set up a strong showing for the southern Mexico side. We’re happy to name Juan Antonio Portales, the new captain of the squad and stalwart defender as this week’s Player of the Week.

Standings Update

After languishing at the bottom of the table last year, Alebrijes tops the 2022 Edition two weeks into the year.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Alebrijes de Oaxaca1102.01.50.5
Legon Cities1011.50.50.5
Freiburg0101.02.02.0
Grenoble0020.01.02.0
University of Montana–b——————
Rosenborg BK–b——————
Minnesota United–b——————
FK Vozdovac——————
Ross County——————
Emelec–b——————
Punjab FC–b——————
Table Updated 1/12/22
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, January 12th

Thursday, January 13th

Friday, January 14th

Dortmund v. Freiburg [M]

Saturday, January 15th

Guingamp v. Grenoble [M]

Sunday, January 16th

LePuy v. Grenoble [F]

Monday, January 17th

Legon Cities FC v. Bechem United

Tuesday, January 18th

Ross County v. Motherwell

Year 2

Year 2

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

I started this blog two years ago back before “pandemic” and “nasal swab” were words in daily conversation. It’s been wonderful to keep a hold of one normal-ish routine in a supremely surreal time.

Here’s how things shook out in 2021 among our favorite 11 sides on the planet.

Final Standings

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana22182.161.50.7
Rosenborg BK419152.032.31.2
Emelec2711141.771.61.2
Punjab FC8461.561.20.9
Freiburg2611231.481.71.5
Grenoble2210221.411.21.2
Minnesota United1310121.401.21.3
Legon Cities1310151.291.11.0
FK Vozdovac1311161.251.11.4
Ross County149201.191.31.5
Alebrijes714121.061.21.6
Table Updated 12/31/21

It’s one thing to have a superlative season after COVID, win your league and make a superb showing in unlikely circumstances. It’s another to do it again a couple months later. But that’s exactly what the University of Montana Griz did this year, and that’s why they ran away with this year’s cup. (U of M soccer jerseys are not available, but rest assured, I will find a way to be as close to full kit dork as possible.)

Emelec came away with the other 2021 trophy we commemorated on that part of the site, but couldn’t pass the dynamic duo of teams in Trondheim…even though neither of them won so much as a silver pudding spoon this year. Still, never bet against Julie Blakstad.

Most teams improved on the last campaign (which is saying something for as woeful as Alebrijes was), only Grenoble, Minnesota United, and FK Vozdovac saw regressions (however the Loons and the Dragons both stayed in good position for the standings…Grenoble, well…the spring was fun.)

Players of the Year

I so deeply enjoyed naming a team of XI favorites, that I took time to track the weekly award winners and sort out who showed up for their team week in and week out.

In goal it was a brutal choice: but We had to opt for the legend: Claire Howard who made the Griz so dominant in the spring and won a pair of player of the week honors.

The back line also had a strong set of selections to draw from. Attention had to be paid to four players who kept up the intensity at both ends of the pitch for four teams who broadly exceeded expectations. Jerome Mombris takes his second straight top XI selections while Romario Caicedo worked wonders in Emelec. Meanwhile Taylor Hansen was absolutely dominant as a Griz captain, and Christian Gunter was one of only three players to get two PoW winners.

The midfield sees two more repeat honorees on the left side with Julie Blakstad and Emanuel Reynoso returning with honors. The other side of the midfield sees two new names who are absolutely invaluable to their respective sides, with Jonah Attaquye masterminding the few attacks that have worked for Legon, and Hasret Kayici, you might say as she goes, so go die Frauen auf Frieburg.

Instead of shouting out the most dominant goal scorers at the spear head of the attack, we opted for decisive ones: Roundglass Punjab’s Chenchyo Geltsen and Vozdovac’s Nicola Vujnovic.

As for the bench, we had to slot the third double PoW winner here (sorry Kiran Limbu…you’re just not Claire Howard). The best defenses of the year (Legon and Rosenborg) came away with the two defensive bench spots: Erland Reitan and Joseph Adjei (the only honoree without a PoW). Joseph Hungbo’s recent run of amazing form and stellar goals gave him the rights to Ross County’s spot on the side, and Kristoffer Zacharissen’s dreamy eyes great leadership for half the year got him dropped onto the bench this year. Finally we kept the top scorers for two under represented sides as our scoring sparks off the bench: Adama Tamba for les femmes de Grenoble, and Kerly Corozco for las Electricas de Emelec.

This year we couldn’t find a way to work in a representative of Alebrijes: too many strong showings owed to the other side collapsing rather than an excellent performance on their end.

Finally, I just want to point out how tight the competition was for goalkeeper this year with three players who didn’t even get close to the bench: Winifred Honsu came out of nowhere to replace Fatua Duda in Legon, Pedro Ortiz remains indefatigable for both club and country, and Camila Xu thrilled us as just a freshman.

What’s Next

Let’s do it again shall we?

Oh, okay, maybe we’ll be more selective in our video taping (what with Alex starting to refuse and Owen mostly wanting to see himself…hmmm…maybe he’s got a future in punditry).

One thing I’m going to aim for in 2022: let’s see if we can get some conversations with people from the clubs…players…managers…confused communication interns…I’m not picky.

64. Forces of Change, Changing your Force

64. Forces of Change, Changing your Force

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A few weeks ago, while driving into work, I heard a summary of political philosophy that neatly captured what I see in society, soccer, and myself.

Put simply: everyone wants to act in response to problems we see. Progressives want to do something while conservatives want to stop something in progress or undo something that’s been done.

Dear Boys,

I’m not about to pretend which point of view I prefer (particularly in politics–hint it starts with a P and ends with “rogressive”.) But as the pundits pointed out both instincts can lead to unintended consequences.

Je pense le meme Adrien (from the Athletic)

Start with my progressive view. Like a lot of folks I want to see my teams make some changes when they struggle. That’s when I start begging for Alebrijes to switch their system, or for the Loons to sign a big striker, or for Ross County to bring in a new coach.

But those changes that many in fan bases yearn for don’t yield immediate results and fail as often as they succeed. Alebrijes might not have the players to make any system work. Adrien Hunou might not find the goal for a couple months. Your team may hire a racist…etc. etc.

The conservative approach is no less fraught. The glory days are so enticing that it’s natural to want to go back. Bring back Jessy Benet in Grenoble, increase the focus on the men’s team at Rosenborg, or undo the appointment of the manager with a few weeks under his belt (see: Tottenham Hotspur).

These too assume that everything can return to the way they were (despite the fact that context, and surroundings, and everything else has changed around them). Jessy’s got a new club. Rosenborg aren’t the league titans they once were. Tottenham’s squad isn’t the fresh faced world beaters they were a few years ago.

This is not possible

The same is true at a personal level.

The more I try to make things the way that I want them to be, the more I struggle, grapple, and grow frustrated.

Whether it’s control in the classroom, or getting you boys to brush your teeth when I want you to, the more I try to do/undo something, the less likely I am to do anything differently.

But, when I accept that things are the way they are, and my role is to bring my full self to them, the more I add to the space, add to the experience, and change it for the better.

Being present with you is so much more meaningful for all of us (and makes brushing fun). Sending love and concern into my classroom yields much more than exerting control over the situation.

On the pitch too, bringing your full self into a space can create a better, more valuable experience for everyone. Think of Coach Citowicki in Missoula, whose manners and approach have given kids at a smaller school professional opportunities and enabled a transition from one generation to the next (see Claire Howard and Camila Xu).

When you are fully present rather than distracted by what you want to make happen, you find a pleasure in what is. The Griz can see that Big Sky titles are beautiful themselves. Freiburg’s loyalty and appreciation of the understated Christian Streich has built the environment for their best season in years.

We get caught up talking about and fixating on the forces of change: how the world ought to be and what tools to make it so. We want to be a force for change in the world. But hard as it is, I believe we ought to resist that temptation, and instead of being a force for change, change your force to quiet grace.

Weeks 45: Celebrate Good Times, Come ON!

Weeks 45: Celebrate Good Times, Come ON!

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Results & Recaps

Alebrijes 2 – 1 Correcaminos

Great day in the morning Oaxaca won a game without the need for late heroics. Just a very, very, very fortunate bounce on an otherwise irrelevant free kick. [Sorry fortunate bounces, you can’t win player of the week.]

Montana Grizzlies 1 – 0 Sacramento State Hornets

The Griz kicked off conference tournament play with a stout defensive effort. Camila Xu stood tall, the back line shut down the hornets and all it took was one quality ball for Charley Boone to play the hero and get her first goal in “like ten years”. The (admittedly, late) win took the Griz one step closer to a second title of the year (more on that in a bit)

Vozdovac 1 – 1 Cukaricki

Cukaricki continues to lead the “Best team not named Partizan/Red Star” competition, so a draw for the dragons feels like a solid showing. All the more because Milos Milosovic scored the equalizer as part of an organized second half comeback following a first half that saw the defense split open like pumpkin on Halloween and amid an utter downpour.

Emelec 2 – 0 Mushuc Runa [M]

Los bombillos came through again to keep up the pressure on Independuente del Valle with Alexis Zapata crushing a gorgeous goal to put them ahead, and Pedro Ortiz standing tall in goal to keep it that way. The top two teams will meet in two weeks with trophies likely on the line.

Bayern Munich 2 – 1 Freiburg [M]

To be honest, we knew that Freiberg’s and beaten the streak would end. We had plenty of reason to suspect it would happen here. And hey we were right.

Freiburg likely won’t be standing atop the league in May, but their effective showings against both Bayern and Dortmund suggests that Europe really is within reach.

Legon Cities 3 – 2 Real Tamale

For the first time in their current incarnation, Legon led the league! (On goal difference…for a couple hours…because most teams had yet to play twice) Still it was great to see Jonah Attuquaye’s penalty seal the deal (and Nathaniel Akwah’s free kick blast just because, well, it’s freaking awesome).

https://youtu.be/lApW6tb4UI8

Brann 2 – 2 Rosenborg [M]

Erland Dahl Reitan set up both the opening goal, an invaluable second half equalizer, and some strong defensive squeezing as Rosenborg had surprising difficulty with relegation bound Brann.

Grenoble 1 – 0 Dunkerke [M]

Loïc Nestor remains an indefatigable Mr Grenoble. While many long term teammates have left, Loïc stays strong. While a dozen other players tried Dunkerke’s defense and blasted away at goal, Loic was the one who made the difference. In addition to shuttling back on the wing to stymie attacks and, in this case, streaking forward to score the match winner in stoppage time.

Kolbotn 1 – 2 Rosenborg [F]

After a few weeks in hiding Julie Blakstad struck back with a vengeance Sunday. She scored both goals in Rosenborg’s last road game this year. At times it seemed like Kolbotn’s defense was more of a help than any sterling offense, but we’ll take every win we can get

Nice 4 – 1 Grenoble Foot [F]

To put it mildly, this wasn’t Grenoble’s day. The match report from my preferred Grenoble soccer blog highlighted an assault on goal by players with first division experience. So the loss was very much sensed. Sherly Jeudy got another late goal (this one, very much a consolation)

Rangers 4 – 2 Ross County

The Stags weren’t terribly likely to get two wins in a row when they had to face reigning Scottish champs Rangers. Still Joseph Hungbo showed his class, Regan Charles Cook reaffirmed his, and Harry Paton got a solid assist as well.

Turbine Potsdam 2 – 1 SC Freiburg

Despite an opening goal from (who else) Hasret Kayicki, Freiburg’s Frauen couldn’t keep up with Potsdam and continued their inconsistent form.

Montana Grizzlies 1 – 0 Weber State Wildcats *Big Sky Conference Championship*

The Griz were a little fortunate that Weber State knocked out hosts, regular season champs and the only big sky squad to Best them Northern Colorado. But that’s how tournaments go, you get some good luck and some bad.

The best luck for the team came on a couple of loose balls. Just like in the semi-finals Camilla Xu’s long ball worked well to set up an attack, and the quick overlap from Zoe Transtrum to Jaden Griggs did all the work.

Best of all you boys got to watch it together, and celebrate with one voice.

LA Galaxy 3 – 3 Minnesota United

It was a wild one in Southern California on Sunday night as the Loons managed to get a vital point to seal their spot in the MLS playoffs. Adrien Hunou and Robin Lod put the Loons in control early on, but the Galaxy made all the adjustments necessary to come back and take the lead. Luck was on the Loons’ side as an own goal gave them the last boost to keep a spot in the playoffs (and send both LA teams home for the winter)

Cancun FC 1 – 2 Alebrijes de Oaxaca

Alebrijes can head into the offseason with their heads held high, finishing with a pair of their best performances all season. Andre Alcaraz had to withstand a bevy of shots and did so with grace despite the back line giving him precious little cover. The goals had a flavor that had been lacking in the season that was with Miguel Vallejo’s free kick and Lizandro Echeverria’s excellent positioning doing the duty for the team’s goals. Getting 9 points off their last six matches, boosted Oaxaca’s final standings (but they still need a lot of help/losing from other teams) to avoid a wooden spoon award.

News & Notes

Boys 2 – 0 Uncle Simon

At Owen’s birthday party you guys dominated your Uncle Simon, pelting him with leaves every chance you got. Well played to both of you. And still he and Auntie E got you a very noisy, very fun, combination soccer goal and basketball hoop…so you may have beaten him, but be still gets the better of me.

Tournament Time Again

The NCAA tournament is one of the most magical times of the year, and to have two in one year is extra fun. This time, the Griz won’t be jetting across the country to face one of the toughest teams in the country, they’ll just head over the Rockies. The Griz get another power conference team in the Washington State Cougars, one that’s in the top 20 in the country. But the Griz have also notched their highest winning total in 20 years, why not repeat that 20 year cycle with a repeat win in the tournament (a win that came, conveniently enough, against Washington State).

Another International Weekend

Teams around the world are inching ever closer to the final rounds of World Cup qualification. This week should see the end of group play in Africa and Europe, with several teams inking their spots in Qatar next year, and several more heading back to the drawing board. We’ll be keeping an extra close eye on players plying their trade for country and perhaps if Nico Schlotterbeck and Christian Gunter can become part of a German team that’s already punched their ticket for the biggest stage of them all.

Player of the Week

Having already heaped the praise on Camilla Xu, lets make a little room for Erland Dahl Reitan. Who not only supported the attack this week but has been a vital component in one of Norway’s best defenses all year. (Sloppy results this last week not withstanding, Reitan deserves a bit of recognition here.

Standings Update

It is officially academic. Even if both Rosenborg sides win all of their games and the Griz crash out in Pullman, Washington, the Griz have enough points to hold on to the top spot in our league. We’ll bestow the trophy officially in a few weeks, but it’s all over now but the crying. Speaking of crying, Alebrijes’ hopes for avoiding the bottom of our league officially rest on a further collapse by Ross County now that their 2021 is wrapped up.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana22172.181.60.6
Rosenborg BK367132.052.31.2
Emelec2610121.831.61.2
Grenoble2010171.491.21.2
Punjab FC–b7461.4711.20.9
Freiburg219191.4691.71.6
Minnesota United1310111.441.21.3
Legon Cities127111.431.21.0
FK Vozdovac1110131.261.11.4
Ross County115191.091.31.6
Alebrijes–b714121.061.21.6
Table Updated 11/10/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, November 10th

Thursday, November 11th

Friday, November 12th

Saturday, November 13th

Rosenborg BK v. Lyn Football [F]

Washington State Cougars v. Montana Grizzlies

FC St. Cyr v. Grenoble Foot [M–Cup]

Sunday, November 14th

SC Freiburg v. Werder Bremen [F]

Monday, November 15th

Tuesday, November 16th

Legon Cities FC v. Great Olympics

Weeks 44: Spooky Scary

Weeks 44: Spooky Scary

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Results & Recaps

Haugesund 0 – 0 Rosenborg [M]

I never know what to say about goalless draws…good on ya for trying, I guess?

Dundee FC 0 – 5 Ross County

Well that shut me up quick. County buried their bottom of the table rivals, with Regan Charles Cook continuing to explode into form, and an absolute blast from Joseph Hungbo making all the highlight reels. It was County’s first win of the campaign, and not a moment too soon.

Vancouver Whitecaps 2 – 1 Minnesota United

The loss dropped the Loons below the playoff line during competitive season for the first time in 3 years. There’s plenty of blame to go around: Tyler Miller looks exhausted, Michael Boxall had an uncharacteristic lapse, the midfield plan of “Bebelo or bust” continues to run dry.

Alebrijes 0 – 0 Atalante

It’s rough when a goalless draw feels like an accomplishment. But…here we are.

Freiburg 3 – 1 Greuther Furth [M]

It’s not been easy for Gruether in their maiden Bundesliga campaign. They didn’t have much chance in this one, Freiburg took advantage of each mistake and cruised to a home victory behind Woo Yong Jeong, Lucas Holer, and Vincent Grifo’s great showing (both on offense and defense).

https://youtu.be/lUlY6abKVDc

Rosenborg 1 – 3 Lillestrom SK [M]

An early goal came completely undone as LSK manhandled Rosenborg in the second half. Normally reliable Goalie Andre Hansen had one of his worst matches of the year and Rosenborg has to start figuring out their plan for the final month of their campaign.

Caen 0 – 1 Grenoble [M]

Adrien Monfray managed both his usual solid defensive showing as well as a decisive goal on the cusp of half time. But this match had the clear cut benefit of a strong Grenoble game plan, blasting the box with crosses and wearing down Caen’s defense until Yoric Ravet found Monfray for the winner.

Ross County v. Hibernian

A covid outbreak in the Hibernian dressing room gave the Staggies an unscheduled break. Thank goodness

Guayaquil City 0 – 1 Emelec [M]

Guyaquil is clearly a beautiful navy blue after Emelec won another Derby match. The potent attack continues to harass all opponents, and Joao Rojas delivered a delightful goal from the set up by Alejandro Cabeza

Hearts of Oak 0 – 0 Legon Cities

A new Ghanaian season started in typical Royals fashion…with a goalless draw. However this one comes with the added perk of doing it against local rivals and regional giants Hearts of Oak. New keeper Eric Ofori Antwi made a major difference in keeping it tight.

Grenoble 4 – 0 Merignac [F]

I’ll always have a soft spot for the fighting Squirrels of Merignac, but let’s give it up for the ladies of Grenoble who utterly dominated their opponents. Andrea Compper got two more goals to boost her tally on the year, and Sherly Jeudy got another as well, while Romane Pilot got a pair of assists.

Vozdovac 1 – 1 TSC Backa Topola

Nikola Vujnovic continues to do as much as any one man CAN do to make the Dragons relevant in Serbia’s duopoly of a league (heck, even within Belgrade). He’s been in great form and blasted home another strong break away goal here. But help at either end of the pitch sure would help.

Minnesota United 2 – 1 Sporting Kansas City

While I helped you boys get ready for Halloween (or rather, while I helped Spiderman and a Dragon gather candy) the Loons wrapped up their home season. As has become tradition, they sent a dozen shots towards goal but only barely eked out a win. Franco Frangapane got the honors of inciting what will (barring a shocking turn of events) be the last Wonderwall of the year.

News & Notes

The Days are long…oh so very long…

Your mom is in the thick of concert season, my colleagues are waylaid with injuries and covid quarantines and we also have to do all the things for you boys. Knowing that if/when you read this, this time will be long gone, I hope you know that before we do anything else in the day, we marvel at the joy of just hearing you play, sing, laugh and be silly. (We would also really appreciate it if you’d save silliness for before and after we change clothes)

Yet the years are short…

It’s officially November which means many more teams are about to start their season break. Alebrijes watch will mercifully end this next week, and the Griz will either start cramming for finals or await their spot in the final tournament. The Loons need some help to make the playoffs, but Rosenborg’s two sides and Emelec will keep vying for position in our family table (more to come on that). It’s strange but true, it’s all coming together sooner than you think.

Players of the Weeks

There are many strikers in great form of late, but let’s turn the clock back and shout out Regan Charles Cook, who has been a treat to watch for Ross County and has buoyed the Staggies as they fight for their Premiership status in Scotland.

Standings Update

Rosenborg missed a great chance with Montana idle to gain ground in the race for the MacKenzie Cup, the two lackluster showings let the Griz grow their lead without even stepping on the field. Meanwhile, Grenoble’s sweep vaulted them up three spots and gave them a positive goal differential again.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana20172.181.60.7
Rosenborg BK356132.062.31.2
Emelec2510121.811.61.2
Freiburg219171.531.71.5
Grenoble1910161.491.21.1
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Minnesota United139111.451.21.2
Legon Cities117111.381.11.0
FK Vozdovac119131.281.11.4
Ross County115181.121.31.5
Alebrijes513120.941.11.7
Table Updated 11/3/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, November 3rd

Ross County v. Hibernian

Alebrijes v. Correcaminos

Thursday, November 4th

Friday, November 5th

Montana Grizzlies v. Sacramento State

Saturday, November 6th

*HAPPY SECOND BIRTHDAY OWEN!*

Bayern Munich v. Freiburg [M]

Legon Cities v. Real Tamale

Vozdovac v. Cukaricki

Brann v. Rosenborg [M]

Grenoble v. Dunkerke [M]

Sunday, November 7th

Kolbotn v. Rosenborg [F]

Nice v. Grenoble Foot [F]

Rangers v Ross County

Turbine Potsdam v. SC Freiburg

*Big Sky Conference Championship*

Emelec v. Mushuc Runa [M]

LA Galaxy v. Minnesota United

Monday, November 8th

Tuesday, November 9th

Cancun FC v. Alebrijes